These days organic is a fad - a slogan tossed about with little meaning but much desired affect. To further muddy the water, there are differing ideas on what exactly makes a fruit or vegetable organic. As a consumer it's vital to look beyond monikers and hyperbole seeking products that are made with great care and integrity. The wines of Barra of Mendocino fit this prerequisite in full.

Long before it was fashionable, Barra has been applying organic farming techniques on their 175 acres of vineyards in the Redwood Valley, Mendocino. Charlie Barra, now 80, has been working with grapes since the mid 1940s and farming the present family estate since 1954.

The wines are expressive and sensibly priced. They all exhibit an unmistakable honesty and purity found in products that are made with passion. Today we feature the Mendocino Petite Sirah.